According to the games' public affairs director, Anthony Hardman, the competition inspires veterans not only to compete, but to "be more active throughout the year." Many athletes are coached by recreation therapists in the VA healthcaresystem and train all year for the summer games. These veterans, Hardman says, "become role models for other seniors." Continue reading.

Military seniors collect Bingo prizes during an evening recreation event at the National Golden Age Games (Image right) World War II veteran Jack Faust, 101, shows off his medals for bowling and shuffleboard

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Service dog Charlie Brown stands by as former Marine and Vietnam veteran Lester Kushner, 65, competes in the 9-Ball pool competition on Monday.